# Add Page Numbers to a PDF

Number a report, a thesis, a contract or a merged bundle so everyone can say “see page 14”. Choose where the numbers go and how they look; the rest of the PDF stays exactly as it is.

_Source: https://sharelargefilesfree.com/tools/add-page-numbers · Updated 2026-09-29_

## How to use it

1. Choose or drop one or more PDFs.
2. Pick the position, the format (such as “Page 3 of 12”) and the first number.
3. Skip the cover or number only some pages if you need to.
4. Press Add page numbers, then download or send the numbered PDF.

## Numbering the way documents need it

- **Skip the cover**: the title page gets no number and page 2 is numbered 1 (or any number you choose).
- **Continue a sequence**: start at 25 for the second volume of a document.
- **Only some pages**: number pages 3-40 and leave appendices alone.
- **Facing pages**: put numbers on the outer corner, right on odd pages and left on even pages, for printed booklets.

## Real text, not a picture

The numbers are added as proper PDF text in a standard font (Helvetica, Times or Courier), so they print sharply at any size, can be searched and copied, and add almost nothing to the file size. Pages that are rotated or have unusual sizes are handled: the number sits where you chose on the page as you see it. Nothing else in the document is changed, including links, bookmarks and form fields.

## Before you number

Put the document together first: combine files with [Merge PDF](https://sharelargefilesfree.com/tools/merge-pdf), drop blank pages with [Delete pages](https://sharelargefilesfree.com/tools/delete-pages) or reorder them with [Organize PDF](https://sharelargefilesfree.com/tools/organize-pdf), then add the numbers last so they run in order. Everything happens in your browser; your PDF is never uploaded.

## Frequently asked questions

### How do I add page numbers to a PDF?

Add the PDF, choose the position and format, and press Add page numbers. The numbered copy is ready in seconds.

### Can I start numbering on page 2?

Yes. Choose “All but the first (cover)”; set the first number to 1 or 2 as you prefer.

### Can I write “Page 1 of 10”?

Yes. Pick that format; the total is counted for you.

### Will numbers cover my content?

They sit in the margin, 10 mm from the edge by default. Increase or reduce the distance if a page has content near its edge.

### Is my PDF uploaded?

No. The numbers are added on your device.